Understanding farmers’ intention to adopt sustainable agriculture in Sikkim: The role of environmental consciousness and attitude

Abstract

This study aimed to comprehensively investigate the key factors influencing farmers’ intentions to adopt sustainable agricultural practices in the unique context of Sikkim. It extends the theory of planned behavior by incorporating environmental consciousness and knowledge as additional independent variables. It examines their impact on farmers’ intentions, attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control. A sample of 384 farmers from two districts of Sikkim was selected using a multistage sampling technique. The collected data were analyzed using Smart PLS SEM 4 software, employing path analysis to determine the direct and indirect effects of the independent variables on farmers’ intention to adopt sustainable agriculture. Environmental consciousness strongly influenced farmers’ attitudes and subjective norms. Knowledge also significantly affects farmers’ perceived behavioral control. Notably, an impactful link was found between environmental consciousness and the intention to adopt sustainable agriculture. The findings provide valuable insights for policymakers and practitioners. Targeted interventions and educational programs should be developed to enhance farmers’ environmental consciousness and knowledge, thereby promoting the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices in Sikkim. This study extends the theory of planned behavior by incorporating environmental consciousness and knowledge as additional determinants. It contributes to understanding the behavioral factors influencing farmers’ intentions to adopt sustainable agriculture and their interrelationships within the context of Sikkim. This study comprehensively investigated the determinants of farmers’ intentions to adopt sustainable agricultural practices in Sikkim. It contributes to the existing literature by incorporating environmental consciousness and knowledge into the theory of planned behavior, providing a nuanced understanding of the adoption process.

Keywords:

• sustainable agriculture
• farmers’ intentions
• theory of planned behavior
• environmental consciousness
• knowledge

PUBLIC INTEREST STATEMENT

Our paper takes you on a journey into the vibrant world of sustainable agriculture, unraveling the secrets behind its transformative power. In a captivating study centered on Sikkim, we unveil the behavioral factors that sway farmers’ intentions to embrace sustainable practices, shedding light on the path towards a greener, more secure future. Join us in unraveling the story of sustainable agriculture, where every decision holds the promise of a healthier planet and more resilient communities.

Acknowledgments

We are immensely grateful to the farmers who willingly participated and shared their insights, as their involvement was crucial to the success of this research. We also express our sincere appreciation to the anonymous reviewers whose thoughtful feedback significantly enhanced the quality and rigor of this research. Your contributions have been instrumental in shaping this work and advancing its scholarly impact.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Data availability statement

The dataset generated and analyzed during the current study is available at: https://data.mendeley.com/datasets/4mhjk63xz6/1

Ethical approval

This research project, part of the Ph.D. study, obtained ethical clearance from the Institutional Ethical Committee of the KH Manipal (MAHE). Approval was granted under reference number IEC-2021-494. In adherence to ethical standards, informed consent was obtained from all participants involved in the study. The consent process ensured that participants were well informed about their participation’s purpose, procedures, and potential risks and benefits before providing their consent.

Supplementary material

Supplemental data for this article can be accessed online at https://doi.org/10.1080/23311932.2023.2261212

Additional information

Funding

This study was conducted without any external funding. We would like to clarify that no financial support or grants that could have influenced the design, execution, or interpretation of the study were received.

Notes on contributors

Roshan Raj Bhujel

Roshan Raj Bhujel is a passionate researcher dedicated to unlocking the secrets of sustainable agriculture. Our exploration reaches far beyond these pages, intertwining with vibrant research endeavors that delve deep into environmental awareness, community empowerment, and groundbreaking agricultural advancements. This study forms a pivotal piece of our broader puzzle, aiming to inspire both academia and practical solutions that cultivate sustainable growth in the realm of agriculture. Join the mind behind the study, driven by the quest for sustainable solutions. From field to fork, our research dives into the intricate tapestry of farming practices, fueled by a vision of a brighter, eco-friendly future. Beyond these findings, our pursuits extend to nurturing sustainable ecosystems, weaving connections that empower farmers and enrich our natural world.